Latina writer of books for kids of all ages.

A quick round-up of things you might want to put on your calendar for the next few weeks.

Journalist Juan Gonzalez, co-host of Democracy Now, will speak at the University of Richmond this Wednesday night. His talk is called Paradise Lost, and the lens is on Puerto Rico – the roots of its economic collapse, the devastation since Hurricane Maria, and what it’s really going to take to bring back that beautiful island. (January 31, 2018, 5 PM, Ukrop Auditorium, at University of Richmond, 28 Westhampton Way, Richmond, VA 23173)

How do kids learn to love words, books and reading – especially if English is a challenge for them? Storyteller and picture book author Carmen Agra Deedy will be at the University of Richmond to work her magic on audiences, weaving personal story and insights. (Here’s a shot of her new picture book which is all about finding your voice.) Wed., February 21, 2018, 5:30 – 6:30 PM, University of Richmond Center for Leadership

I have a new book for your bedside table: The Distance Between Us, by Reyna Grande whose memoir is this year’s All County Reads selection in Henrico County. She’ll be appearing at Glen Allen High School, to discuss the book on Wed April 11, 7 – 8:30 PM. (Doors open at 6:30 PM.) Meanwhile, you can go to any of your local libraries after Feb 1 to register to win a free copy of her book.

(young readers edition)

And a PS, you’ll have to hurry if you haven’t seen Nuestras Histórias at the Valentine Museum. How long have Latinos been in the Richmond region? Where are we from? What have been our contributions so far? Hurry. The exhibit closes April 15. The Valentine Museum, 1015 E Clay Street, Richmond, VA 23219